How to fix iphone 5s rear camera not working

Learn effective solutions to troubleshoot and resolve the issue of iPhone 5s rear camera not working, ensuring you can capture clear and crisp photos again.

Is your iPhone 5s rear camera not working properly? Having a malfunctioning rear camera can be frustrating, especially if you rely on your phone for taking photos and videos. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve this issue before seeking professional help. In this guide, we will walk you through some common solutions to fix the iPhone 5s rear camera not working problem.

Before you begin, it’s important to make sure that the issue is not related to hardware damage. Check for any physical damage to the camera lens or the surrounding area. If you notice any cracks or scratches, you may need to have the camera repaired or replaced by a professional technician.

Must-Have
Versatile 25-in-1 Magnetic Screwdriver Set
Aliexpress
Versatile 25-in-1 Magnetic Screwdriver Set
Top Rated
OTTERBOX Waterproof Phone Case for iPhone
Amazon.com
OTTERBOX Waterproof Phone Case for iPhone
Trending Now
Heat Resistant Fixing Station for iPhone Repairs
Amazon.com
Heat Resistant Fixing Station for iPhone Repairs

If there is no visible damage to the camera, try restarting your iPhone 5s. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve software glitches that may be causing the rear camera to malfunction. To restart your iPhone, press and hold the power button until you see the “slide to power off” option. Slide the button to turn off your phone, then press and hold the power button again to turn it back on.

Troubleshooting iPhone 5s Rear Camera Issues

If you are experiencing issues with the rear camera on your iPhone 5s, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to try and resolve the problem. Here are some common solutions:

1. Check for obstructions

Make sure there are no obstructions blocking the camera lens or the flash. Clean the lens with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Restart your iPhone

Restarting your iPhone can sometimes resolve camera issues. Press and hold the power button until the slider appears, then slide to power off. Wait a few seconds, then press and hold the power button again to turn your iPhone back on.

See also  How to search iphone camera for nudes

3. Update your iPhone

Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for any available updates.


Must-Have
Versatile 25-in-1 Magnetic Screwdriver Set
Perfect for all your electronics repair needs
This magnetic precision screwdriver set is ideal for disassembling and repairing iPhones, laptops, and other electronics. Its versatile design allows for easy handling and storage.

4. Reset camera settings

You can reset the camera settings on your iPhone by going to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. This will not delete any of your data, but it will reset all settings, including camera settings.

5. Contact Apple Support

If none of the above solutions work, it may be a hardware issue with your iPhone’s camera. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance.

Check for Software Updates

If your iPhone 5s rear camera is not working, one of the first things you should do is check for any available software updates. Sometimes, camera issues can be caused by software bugs that can be fixed with an update.

To check for software updates on your iPhone 5s, follow these steps:

  1. Go to Settings on your iPhone.
  2. Scroll down and tap on General.
  3. Tap on Software Update.
  4. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

After updating your iPhone’s software, restart your device and check if the rear camera is now working properly.

Restart Your iPhone 5s

If your iPhone 5s rear camera is not working, one of the first troubleshooting steps you should try is to restart your device. Sometimes a simple restart can fix minor software glitches that may be causing the camera to malfunction.

To restart your iPhone 5s, press and hold the power button until the “slide to power off” slider appears. Slide the slider to turn off your device. Once your iPhone is off, press and hold the power button again until the Apple logo appears, indicating that your device is restarting.

See also  How to access camera from home screen on iphone 11


Top Rated
OTTERBOX Waterproof Phone Case for iPhone
Ultimate protection for iPhone 5/5S/SE
This waterproof case is designed to keep your iPhone safe from water and drops with its durable polycarbonate and rubber construction. Its sleek design ensures it fits seamlessly into your pocket without compromising style.
Updated: August 7, 2026 5:06 pm

Clean the Camera Lens

If your iPhone 5s rear camera is not working properly, it may be due to a dirty or smudged camera lens. Over time, dust, fingerprints, and other debris can accumulate on the lens, affecting the quality of your photos. To fix this issue, you should start by cleaning the camera lens.

To clean the camera lens, gently wipe it with a soft, lint-free cloth. You can also use a microfiber cloth or a lens cleaning solution designed for cameras. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can scratch the lens. Make sure to clean both the front and back camera lenses thoroughly to remove any dirt or smudges.

Reset Camera Settings

If your iPhone 5s rear camera is not working properly, you can try resetting the camera settings to see if that resolves the issue. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Go to the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and find the “General” section.
3. Tap on “Reset” at the bottom of the screen.
4. Select “Reset All Settings” and confirm your choice.
5. Your iPhone will restart and the camera settings will be reset to default.

After resetting the camera settings, check if the rear camera on your iPhone 5s is now working properly. If the issue persists, you may need to further troubleshoot or seek professional assistance.

Update iOS Version

If your iPhone 5s rear camera is not working properly, it could be due to a software issue. One of the first things you should do is check if your iOS version is up to date. Updating your iOS version can often fix bugs and issues that may be causing the camera to malfunction.

See also  Why is my front camera foggy iphone 5s

To update your iOS version, go to Settings on your iPhone, then tap on General, and select Software Update. If there is an update available, download and install it. Make sure your iPhone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and has sufficient battery life before updating.

After updating your iOS version, restart your iPhone and check if the rear camera is now working properly. If the issue persists, you may need to try other troubleshooting steps.

Check for Hardware Damage

If your iPhone 5s rear camera is not working, the first step is to check for any hardware damage. Inspect the camera lens for any cracks or scratches that may be affecting the camera’s functionality. Check the camera module and connectors for any signs of physical damage or corrosion. If you notice any issues, you may need to replace the damaged components to restore the camera’s functionality.


Trending Now
Heat Resistant Fixing Station for iPhone Repairs
Ideal for complex chip repair processes
This fixing station is essential for repair professionals working with various iPhone models, providing the perfect platform for chip repairs. Its heat-resistant design ensures top performance during technical processes.

Contact Apple Support

If you have tried all the troubleshooting steps and your iPhone 5s rear camera is still not working, it may be a hardware issue that requires professional assistance. Contact Apple Support to schedule a repair or replacement for your device. You can reach out to Apple Support through their website, call their customer service hotline, or visit an Apple Store near you for in-person support.

Consider Professional Repair Services

If the above methods didn’t resolve the issue with your iPhone 5s rear camera, it might be time to consider professional repair services. Certified technicians have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix hardware issues that might be causing the camera malfunction. Contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider to get your device inspected and repaired by professionals.

Carmen J. Moore
Carmen J. Moore

Carmen J. Moore is an expert in the field of photography and videography, blending a passion for art with technical expertise. With over a decade of experience in the industry, she is recognized as a sought-after photographer and videographer capable of capturing moments and crafting unique visual narratives.

  1. I had a similar issue last month. I cleaned the camera lens and that seemed to help at first, but then it stopped working again. I’m not sure what to do next. Should I try resetting the camera settings?

    • Evan Campbell July 31, 2026 at 1:41 pm

      Resetting the camera settings worked for me! It might be worth a shot before going for a repair.

  2. Golden_Keeper July 10, 2026 at 5:25 pm

    When you say to check for hardware damage, what exactly should we look for? Just scratches or something more?

  3. Luke H. Davis July 25, 2026 at 8:54 pm

    If you’re still having issues, definitely contact Apple Support. They were really helpful for me when my camera stopped working.

  4. I had the same issue with my iPhone 5s. I first cleaned the lens, which helped a bit, but it wasn’t until I reset all settings that my camera started working again. Just remember to back up your settings if you have any customizations.

  5. Just a tip: Make sure your iPhone is updated to avoid software glitches. That seems to help a lot!

  6. I disagree that cleaning the lens is the first step. If there's a software issue, that should be checked first. Cleaning won't fix a problem caused by an update bug.

  7. Isabella V. Hill August 31, 2026 at 11:07 pm

    What should I do if I’ve already tried restarting my iPhone and the camera is still not working?

  8. Does resetting the camera settings erase my photos or videos?

Camera Reviews
Logo